Richard L Croft

This inventor holds 9 USPTO granted patents and 15 published patent applications and 4 EPO patents. Top assignee: Covidien LP. Active years: 1982-2026.

IDiyas Innovation Intelligence. (2026). Inventor Profile: Richard L Croft. Retrieved from https://idiyas.com/inventor/richard-l-croft-c4udkngc

Data source: USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office) public patent records. Weekly synchronization. How IDiyas builds this profile

Calculating rank

USPTO Granted Patents = 9 (Patent Applications = 15)

% Patents Active = 100.0

EPO Patents = 4 (Patent Applications = 11)

Average Co-Inventor Count = 1.5

ph-index = 1

Forward Citations = 3(Granted Patents)

Location History:

Lakewood, OH (US) (1982)
Mead, CO (US) (2020 - 2024)

Company Filing History:

8 out of 8,153

Covidien LP

patents

where one patent can have more than one assignee

Years Active: 1982-2026

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9 patents (USPTO):Sort by Forward CitationsExplore Patents

1. 12690943 - Surgical inventory systems (2026-07-28),

2. 12642569 - Electrosurgical instruments including thermal cutting elements (2026-06-02),

3. 12629200 - Surgical instruments, systems, and methods incorporating ultrasonic and electrosurgical functionality (2026-05-19),

4. 12446914 - Ultrasonic surgical instruments for detecting wear in jaw liner (2025-10-21),

5. 12001912 - In-vivo introducible antenna for detection of RF tags (2024-06-04),

6. 11730559 - RF tag with gravitationally aligned orientation (2023-08-22),

7. 11620464 - In-vivo introducible antenna for detection of RF tags (2023-04-04),

8. 10784920 - Wirelessly detectable object that emits a variable-frequency response signal, and method and system for detecting and locating same (2020-09-22),

9. T102501 - Process of preparing a potassium stannate-stannic oxide sol tin (1982-12-06),

Title: Richard L. Croft: Innovator in Surgical Instrumentation

Introduction

Richard L. Croft is a notable inventor based in Mead, Colorado, recognized for his contributions to the field of surgical instrumentation. With a total of 9 patents to his name, Croft has made significant advancements that enhance surgical procedures and patient safety.

Latest Patents

Among his latest innovations, Croft developed an ultrasonic surgical instrument designed for detecting wear in jaw liners. This end effector assembly features an ultrasonic blade that couples with an ultrasonic transducer to transmit vibration energy. The jaw member is movable and includes a wear indicator that alerts users when the jaw liner has worn beyond a predetermined threshold. Another significant patent is the in-vivo introducible antenna for the detection of RF tags. This system allows for the detection of surgical implements within a patient's body using RFID tags that transmit signals when energized, enhancing the safety and efficiency of surgical procedures.

Career Highlights

Croft is currently employed at Covidien LP, a company known for its innovative medical devices and technologies. His work focuses on developing advanced surgical instruments that improve operational outcomes and patient care.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Croft has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Michael B. Lyons and David J. Van Tol. These partnerships have contributed to the successful development of his patented technologies.

Conclusion

Richard L. Croft's innovative work in surgical instrumentation exemplifies the impact of engineering on healthcare. His patents not only advance surgical techniques but also prioritize patient safety and operational efficiency.

Profile summary based on public USPTO records.